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Islamic Cleric Sentenced to 11 Years for Burning Bible in Egypt - Vows to Continue 'Attack on Church'

Islamic preacher Abu Islam, who was convicted on charges of contempt of Christianity, incitement to strife and disturbing public security and sentenced to 11 years in jail, says he does not care about the verdict against him yesterday, as it will not prevent him from carrying on to "attack the Church."

In regards to the ruling, Abu Islam said he expected a sentence of 25 years in prison, but when he heard that judgment, he knew the court had pity for him in his old age.

In a telephone call with Al-Hayat TV, Abu Islam stressed he would keep his hostility towards the Church, which he said insults the Prophet, converts Muslims to Christianity and seizes the lands of the state to build churches.

"I did not stir up strife, but they are Christians who began by drawing crosses," said Abu Islam. "The Church is responsible for promoting sectarian strife since the accident of el-Kushh up to this day."

He stressed that the ruling power will not change its treatment with the Church or with Christians, and his role is to make people aware of the truth as a news reporter.

The Misdemeanor Court in Nasr City, headed by Judge Muatassim Billah Gibali, sentenced Ahmed Mohamed Mahmoud, known as Abu Islam, the owner of Al-Ummah TV, to 11 years in prison on charges of contempt of religion, tearing the Bible and disturbing public security.